Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has issued a firm statement of support for Prime Minister Mark Carney and the federal government following the collapse of Canada-U.S. trade talks and the imposition of new 50 per cent tariffs.
In a statement released Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026, Locke said Surrey stands firmly with Team Canada in rejecting an agreement that would have harmed the Canadian economy and weakened the country’s independence.
“The Prime Minister was right to reject an unfair agreement that would have harmed Canada’s economy and weakened our independence,” Locke said. “Canada negotiated in good faith, but no deadline and no threat of tariffs should force our country to accept a bad deal. Canada must decide its own future, and Canadians must stand together to defend it.”
The United States has imposed 50 per cent tariffs on billions of dollars worth of Canadian goods after trade negotiations broke down. Locke described the move as unfair and damaging to workers, businesses and families on both sides of the border.
Surrey Backs Federal Decision to Reject Bad Deal
Locke emphasized that Canada will not be intimidated or pressured into giving up control of its economic future. She fully supports the federal government’s strong response and its commitment to protect Canadian jobs and industries.
“Canada will not be intimidated, divided or pressured into giving up control of its future,” the mayor stated.
The statement comes as British Columbia and other provinces face significant exposure to the new tariffs, particularly in sectors such as forestry, manufacturing and value-added products.
Impact of 50% Tariffs on Workers and Businesses
Locke acknowledged that the tariffs will create real challenges for local employers and workers in Surrey, one of Canada’s largest and fastest-growing cities. The city is home to major industries, businesses and key trade routes that connect British Columbia to the rest of the country and international markets.
She stressed that the impact will be felt by families and businesses that rely on stable cross-border trade, while noting that the same tariffs will also raise costs for American consumers and companies.
Local Action: Reviewing Procurement and Supporting Canadian Firms
In a practical step, Locke has directed city staff to examine Surrey’s procurement processes. The goal is to identify opportunities to prioritize Canadian businesses, products and workers wherever possible.
“I have asked staff to look closely at our procurement processes and identify opportunities to support Canadian businesses, products and workers wherever possible,” she said.
The city will also work closely with federal and provincial partners to coordinate support for affected industries and ensure local businesses have access to available programs.
Standing With Surrey’s Business Community
Locke made clear that the City of Surrey will stand alongside its business community during this period of uncertainty. She highlighted the importance of protecting jobs and livelihoods that are now at risk due to the sudden escalation in trade tensions.
Surrey’s rapid growth and diverse economy position it as an important player in Canada’s response, both through local purchasing decisions and by advocating for fair treatment of Canadian exporters.
Clear Message on Canada-U.S. Relations
While affirming the value of a strong relationship with the United States, Locke set clear conditions for that relationship.
“We value a strong and fair relationship with the United States, but that relationship must be based on fairness, trust and respect for Canada’s independence,” she said.
Her closing message was direct: Surrey stands with its workers, its businesses, and with Canada.
The statement aligns with similar positions taken by Premier David Eby and other Canadian leaders who have argued that no deal is better than a bad deal in the current trade dispute.
Quick Facts
- Statement issued by Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke on Aug. 22, 2026.
- Supports Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to reject unfair U.S. trade terms.
- 50% U.S. tariffs now in effect on a wide range of Canadian goods.
- Surrey will review procurement to favour Canadian suppliers where possible.
- City commits to working with federal and provincial governments to support affected businesses and workers.
- Emphasizes that Canada-U.S. relations must be based on fairness, trust and respect for Canadian independence.
